Leo Park, a dedicated high school music teacher and conductor with 24 years of experience, is making a significant impact on the lives of students at Maine South High School (formerly, Northside Prep) in Chicago. His passion for popular music and his commitment to student-centered learning have created a vibrant and inspiring classroom environment.
Leo’s journey began during his undergrad with a volunteer experience at the Chicago Public Schools All-City Music Program, where students from CPS high schools traveled to downtown Chicago on Saturday mornings to participate in various music ensembles. As a volunteer working with violinists, Leo quickly realized the profound impact that music education could have on young people. Within several weeks of working with the students, it became clear to him that music education was the career path he wanted to pursue.
He first heard about Music Will through Paul Gilvary, a respected Music Will and modern band educator in Chicago. At the time, Leo was teaching a secondary general music methods course at VanderCook College of Music, where Paul was a student. Intrigued by Paul’s enthusiasm for Music Will, Leo decided to learn more about the program.
Impressed by Music Will’s focus on inclusivity and its commitment to reaching a wider range of students, Leo enrolled in the Music Will training program. He believes that Music Will’s approach to music education offers a more inclusive and accessible curriculum, reaching a wider range of students than traditional music education approaches (band, orchestra, choir) that can be restrictive. By offering a more inclusive and accessible curriculum, Music Will teachers are helping to break down barriers and make music education more relevant to all students.
Additionally, Leo’s signature course, “Experiences in Popular Music,” provides students with a unique opportunity to explore their musical interests within a culturally relevant and engaging context. He recognizes that students face various challenges and strives to create a safe and welcoming space for learning. By immersing students in a musical world they can relate to, Leo helps to foster a sense of belonging, empowerment, and a lifelong love of music.
Outside of the classroom, he actively participates in the Music Will network, collaborating with other educators to share best practices and support each other’s professional growth. He has earned numerous accolades, including the 2016 Golden Apple Excellence in Teaching Award and the 2018 Illinois Asian Pacific American Teacher Award. He also attends concerts, book shows, and even performs with his own band, Okay Kiddos.
Leo Park’s dedication to music education and his innovative approach to teaching have made a significant impact on the lives of his students. Through his work with Music Will, Leo has been able to provide his students with a unique and enriching musical experience that will benefit them for years to come.
Are you a music educator looking to make a difference in your students’ lives? Consider implementing Music Will’s modern band curriculum in your classroom. To learn more about Music Will and how it can benefit your students, visit https://musicwill.org/.
